Ninety-nine years ago..

Ninety-nine years ago.

In the summer of 1914 the Archduke of Austro-Hungary was assassinated in Bosnia by a Serbian nationalist. This one action set in motion a series of events which culminated in the first World War. A new era in human history had begun. The events in one corner of the globe would spread to involve all of Earth’s nations in one way or an another.

One reality that has become apparent in these last ninety-nine years is that intentions seldom match outcomes. It is unsettling to realize that what happens in places far removed from where we worship, live, and work can radically alter our lives and the lives of those whom we love. Those attacked or threatened with attack may not always respond as anticipated.

It is equally unsettling to know that political leaders fail to consider the ultimate reality, the Living God. These leaders make decisions in the moment that could unwittingly impact millions in the days and months ahead without consideration of Who is really in control.

The greater, comforting reality is that, just like in 1914, things are not out of control. Whether it is 1914 or 2013, God rules over the affairs of men. He is not concerned with political correctness or tolerance. He rules as he wills. It is time to remember the words of one political leader after he encountered the power and sovereign rule of God. Encourage yourselves and your children with these words. Just as he did in 1914, our God reigns!

“At the end of that time, I, Nebuchadnezzar, raised my eyes toward heaven, and my sanity was restored. Then I praised the Most High; I honored and glorified him who lives forever.

His dominion is an eternal dominion; his kingdom endures from generation to generation.

All the peoples of the earth are regarded as nothing. He does as he pleases with the powers of heaven and the peoples of the earth. No one can hold back his hand or say to him: “What have you done?””

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Jay Younts

John A. (Jay) Younts is the Shepherd Press blogger, and is a ruling elder serving at Redeemer Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church in Moore, South Carolina. He has written Everyday Talk, Everyday Talk About Sex & Marriage, Finding the Right Track, the In Touch With Paul stewardship series, and What About War. He has studied and taught about biblical childrearing for 30 years. He and his late wife Ruth have five adult children.